What do you think?
Rate this book
Batman and Robin and Howard
Sidelined by a crime-fighting field trip gone wrong, Damian Wayne must refocus his attention on his life as an average student and learning how to be a team player--especially when he meets his match in his new rival, Howard.
To Damian Wayne, there is nothing more important than protecting the streets of Gotham City as Robin. But when he makes a critical mistake while out on patrol, Damian finds himself benched. And what's more, Damian's dad, Bruce Wayne--a.k.a. Batman--decides that starting over in a new school will be just the distraction Damian needs from his superhero routine.
Certain that Gotham Metro Academy has nothing to teach him, Damian is completely unprepared for the challenge he finds in Howard--the smartest and most athletic kid in school. The boys' rivalry is instantaneous and fierce...and both are sure only one of them can be the best in their class.
What follows is a funny story of rivalry, friendship, and mystery from bestselling author and illustrator Jeffrey Brown.
To Damian Wayne, there is nothing more important than protecting the streets of Gotham City as Robin. But when he makes a critical mistake while out on patrol, Damian finds himself benched. And what's more, Damian's dad, Bruce Wayne--a.k.a. Batman--decides that starting over in a new school will be just the distraction Damian needs from his superhero routine.
Certain that Gotham Metro Academy has nothing to teach him, Damian is completely unprepared for the challenge he finds in Howard--the smartest and most athletic kid in school. The boys' rivalry is instantaneous and fierce...and both are sure only one of them can be the best in their class.
What follows is a funny story of rivalry, friendship, and mystery from bestselling author and illustrator Jeffrey Brown.
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2021
10 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Jeffrey Brown
189 books1,388 followersJeffrey Brown was born in 1975 in Grand Rapids, Michigan and grew up reading comic books with dreams of someday drawing them, only to abandon them and focus on becoming a 'fine artist.' While earning his MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Brown abandoned painting and began drawing comics with his first autobiographical book 'Clumsy' in 2001. Since then he's drawn a dozen books for publishers including TopShelf, Fantagraphics, Drawn & Quarterly, McSweeney's and Chronicle Books. Simon & Schuster published his latest graphic memoir 'Funny Misshapen Body.' In addition to directing an animated video for the band Death Cab For Cutie, Brown has had his work featured on NPR's 'This American Life' His art has been shown at galleries in New York, San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles and Paris. Jeffrey's work has also appeared in the Best American Comics series and received the Ignatz Award in 2003 for 'Outstanding Minicomic.'
He currently lives in Chicago with his wife Jennifer and their son Oscar.
He currently lives in Chicago with his wife Jennifer and their son Oscar.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 22, 2021
This book is so dumb, I fear just reading it made me dumber. This is the kind of children's book that is simply insulting to children.
So, Batman is the world's most incompetent dad and superhero, spending most of the book -- days and days -- locked up in a storage room. And his son Damian plays soccer. And Howard wants to befriend Damian, but then doesn't like him, but then does.
And who cares? And why put this out into the world? Dumb and boring.
So, Batman is the world's most incompetent dad and superhero, spending most of the book -- days and days -- locked up in a storage room. And his son Damian plays soccer. And Howard wants to befriend Damian, but then doesn't like him, but then does.
And who cares? And why put this out into the world? Dumb and boring.
December 7, 2021
I'm a huge Jeffrey Brown fan, and Damian Wayne's Robin is one of my favorite new characters to come along in the past few decades, so this was a complete no-brainer.
BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD is a gentle little all-ages story about friendship, loyalty, and teamwork. After a case of mistaken identity ends with Robin kicking an innocent person, Batman sidelines him, and forces him to attend public school. Once there, Damian enters into a friendly (at first...) rivalry with a fellow student named Howard, which eventually morphs into a full-on feud between the two as they jockey for supremacy among Howard's circle of friends. Meanwhile, Batman, without Robin there to keep him out of trouble, finds himself locked in a middle-school break room, providing some of the most hilarious moments in the book.
Brown's clean art and appealing writing are top-notch, as usual, and the colors, by Silvana Brys, really make the art pop. Howard is a wonderful new character, a kind, outgoing kid who strives to make sure that everyone feels welcome and included, and he makes a great counterbalance to the more guarded Damian Wayne.
This is truly an all-ages book that can be enjoyed by all ages. Highly recommended.
DC Comics provided a review copy.
BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD is a gentle little all-ages story about friendship, loyalty, and teamwork. After a case of mistaken identity ends with Robin kicking an innocent person, Batman sidelines him, and forces him to attend public school. Once there, Damian enters into a friendly (at first...) rivalry with a fellow student named Howard, which eventually morphs into a full-on feud between the two as they jockey for supremacy among Howard's circle of friends. Meanwhile, Batman, without Robin there to keep him out of trouble, finds himself locked in a middle-school break room, providing some of the most hilarious moments in the book.
Brown's clean art and appealing writing are top-notch, as usual, and the colors, by Silvana Brys, really make the art pop. Howard is a wonderful new character, a kind, outgoing kid who strives to make sure that everyone feels welcome and included, and he makes a great counterbalance to the more guarded Damian Wayne.
This is truly an all-ages book that can be enjoyed by all ages. Highly recommended.
DC Comics provided a review copy.
September 1, 2021
This is the funniest take on the Batman mythos I have read in a long time.
The basic premise is that Damian, the son of Batman, who is the current Robin, has to go to a public middle school, which he doesn’t want to do, as punishment for misjudging a crime, where he hurt innocent people. He is also not allowed to go out on any more patrols with Batman.
At the new school, Howard tries to make friends with him, but they both read each other the wrong way, and think that the other is too stuck up, or a bully or both.
It is written with humor and with heart, and there are the usual middle school problems. And in the meantime, there is a bad guy who is trying to mess up the local soccer tournaments, and Batman is trying to figure out a) why and b) who is doing it.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest reivew.
The basic premise is that Damian, the son of Batman, who is the current Robin, has to go to a public middle school, which he doesn’t want to do, as punishment for misjudging a crime, where he hurt innocent people. He is also not allowed to go out on any more patrols with Batman.
At the new school, Howard tries to make friends with him, but they both read each other the wrong way, and think that the other is too stuck up, or a bully or both.
It is written with humor and with heart, and there are the usual middle school problems. And in the meantime, there is a bad guy who is trying to mess up the local soccer tournaments, and Batman is trying to figure out a) why and b) who is doing it.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest reivew.
December 26, 2023
Quite fantastic 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
November 17, 2021
Batman and Robin and Howard is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Jeffrey Brown. It is a very endearing and humorous tale about Damian Wayne taking on public school, making friends, and figuring out what kind of pint-sized hero he wants to be.
Damian Wayne's adventure begins after he feels sidelined by his father and after an errant decision on a mission on the night before his first day at a new school – Gotham Metro Academy. Damian Wayne is, understandably, a bit spoiled and extremely aloof about his less-than-favorable personality traits that go along with being a billionaire's son.
However, Damian Wayne is surprised and completely unprepared for the challenge he finds in Howard, who is the smartest and most athletic kid in school. Their rivalry is instantaneous and fierce and in their minds, only one of them could be the best at Gotham Metro Academy. What follows is a funny story of rivalry, friendship, and, of course, mystery.
Batman and Robin and Howard is written and constructed rather well. The narrative is lighthearted and fun and filled with perils and pitfalls that are perfectly proportioned for a middle schooler – the target audience. However, Brown still manages to create an extremely fun story filled to the brim with heart, humor, and a healthy dose of Batman trying to get to the bottom of the latest menace – who is terrorizing the local soccer tournament.
All in all, Batman and Robin and Howard is a wonderful graphic novel with hidden lessons about growing up, being a good friend, and finding one's place in the world – even a superhero.
Damian Wayne's adventure begins after he feels sidelined by his father and after an errant decision on a mission on the night before his first day at a new school – Gotham Metro Academy. Damian Wayne is, understandably, a bit spoiled and extremely aloof about his less-than-favorable personality traits that go along with being a billionaire's son.
However, Damian Wayne is surprised and completely unprepared for the challenge he finds in Howard, who is the smartest and most athletic kid in school. Their rivalry is instantaneous and fierce and in their minds, only one of them could be the best at Gotham Metro Academy. What follows is a funny story of rivalry, friendship, and, of course, mystery.
Batman and Robin and Howard is written and constructed rather well. The narrative is lighthearted and fun and filled with perils and pitfalls that are perfectly proportioned for a middle schooler – the target audience. However, Brown still manages to create an extremely fun story filled to the brim with heart, humor, and a healthy dose of Batman trying to get to the bottom of the latest menace – who is terrorizing the local soccer tournament.
All in all, Batman and Robin and Howard is a wonderful graphic novel with hidden lessons about growing up, being a good friend, and finding one's place in the world – even a superhero.
August 11, 2024
## WHY I PICKED IT UP
The guy who wrote 'darth vader and son' writes 'batman and son.' Kind of.
It was just sitting there on the Available Now section of the library website.
Also, Damian Wayne is canonically the most violent and murderous member of the bat-family. I was really curious how he'd do as the main character of a children's book. The Bat Mythos is flexible enough for that I guess.
## WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT
I really appreciated the bits about "How can my dad be Batman and still be so awkward?" Doesn't matter who you are, your kids still think you're a dork. Like when Lebron James was dancing at the Olympics and embarrassed his little girl. Little girl, that's Lebron James. Damian, that's Batman.
Funny how Batman is little bit of a doofus in this one, spends most of the time stuck in a middle school equipment locker.
## WHO I'D RECOMMEND IT TO
Kids and other humans who like funny batman stories for kids.
The guy who wrote 'darth vader and son' writes 'batman and son.' Kind of.
It was just sitting there on the Available Now section of the library website.
Also, Damian Wayne is canonically the most violent and murderous member of the bat-family. I was really curious how he'd do as the main character of a children's book. The Bat Mythos is flexible enough for that I guess.
## WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT
I really appreciated the bits about "How can my dad be Batman and still be so awkward?" Doesn't matter who you are, your kids still think you're a dork. Like when Lebron James was dancing at the Olympics and embarrassed his little girl. Little girl, that's Lebron James. Damian, that's Batman.
Funny how Batman is little bit of a doofus in this one, spends most of the time stuck in a middle school equipment locker.
## WHO I'D RECOMMEND IT TO
Kids and other humans who like funny batman stories for kids.
June 9, 2022
I’m not going to lie I went into this book a tad of a hater I wasn’t a super huge fan on the art style and was disappointed at how the artist chose to draw Damian as very white but they do that in the normal comics to… anyway I was completely won over I was laughing so hard reading this and the understanding of the characters is so perfect I was reading a library copy but ordered a copy for my bookshelf right after finishing it
March 28, 2022
Sweet little funny graphic novel that I know kids from years 3 to 8 will enjoy. Damian, Bruce Wayne’s son, is attending the local public school, having previously attended fairly fancy prep schools, and becomes a bit of a superstar, while the welcoming Howard soon recognises him as major competition and becomes resentful. Batman gets stuck in a changing room when he’s investigating local soccer club vandalism and so it’s left to Damian as Robin to take the reins. Kids will like this.
January 5, 2026
If you’re looking for a fun, low stakes adventure with good heart and a handful of references for Batman fans of all ages and eras, this is the graphic novel for you. Is it silly? Yes. Is it targeted toward children? Yes. Is it as deep and complex as The Killing Joke or The Dark Knight Returns? Obviously not, and it’s not supposed to be. It’s perfect for what it is. 5 Stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 21, 2022
Batman and Robin and Howard is a fun take on the Batman story. There is a minor mystery in the plot, but it is mostly a tale of belonging, friendship, and first impressions. Some of my 5th graders will be interested.
July 20, 2023
I liked a lot about this--the relationships, the conflict, the resolution, even the mystery--but honestly I was a little bored. But I'm 45 years old and obviously not the intended audience.
My six year old son loved it. We read it in two sittings.
My six year old son loved it. We read it in two sittings.
October 26, 2021
RTC for blog.
Thank you to the publisher for my earc.
Thank you to the publisher for my earc.
February 22, 2022
Not much here but a silly story about how any kid can live the dream of being a super hero and helping out in a big way.
June 3, 2022
Being born and raised as a member of the League of Assassins has been a real setback to Damian Wayne when it comes to crime-fighting. He lacks the human element needed to distinguish a car burglar from a family who accidentally locked their keys inside their car. Damian is also just too competitive; not just with others but himself as well. Thanks to his mother Talia and grandpa R'as Al Ghul, 2nd place is considered 1st loser.
To get a better grasp on social graces, Bruce Wayne benches Damian and enrolls his son into a new school, Metro Gotham Academy. The BMOC at Metro is Howard. He's the smartest kid in class. The best player on the school soccer team. And he's beloved by students and teachers alike. But with the appearance of Damian Wayne on campus, Howard's favored student status is in serious jeopardy.
Meanwhile, Batman has gone missing. The soccer teams of all the local schools, except for Damian's old school and Metro, have been vandalized. On the trail of seemingly the Joker, Riddler or even Poison Ivy, Batman finds himself stuck in his most unbreakable prison ever- the utility closet of a middle school gymnasium!
With Batman lost, Damian is anxious to find his dad. But he can't do it alone. And Alfred is refusing to let Damian go out patrolling in costume alone. Can Damian reveal to his arch-rival Howard in hopes of finding Batman and ending a soccer themed crime wave?
This was another DC Kids graphic novel that I've been looking forward to for quite some time. And thanks to my local library, I was able to finally get my hands on it. Written and illustrated by Family Comic Family Jeffrey Brown (Star Wars: Jedi Academy), this was a fun read. I thought Damian was portrayed spot-on as he's been in the comics. Only maybe a little less arrogantly. This is a kids book, ya know.
I liked the new character of Howard and his school. I liked how one of the students are portrayed as disabled and yet the book does make a big, patronizing deal about it. It just was. Like how those with disabilities want to be treated: as a part of the group.
What I wasn't a fan of was how Brown portrays Batman. If you haven't figured things out, this Batman is kinda a buffoon. Having the Caped Crusader be aloof, like an out of touch dad is fine for its comedic effect. But having Batman be so dumb he can't break out of a middle school locker room just isn't Batman.
A great read that was goofy. Just some parts were better than others. And be sure to read through very end of the book for a special double-page secret scene!
I'd be okay with a sequel or two, regardless of how goofy the Dark Knight was in this book!
To get a better grasp on social graces, Bruce Wayne benches Damian and enrolls his son into a new school, Metro Gotham Academy. The BMOC at Metro is Howard. He's the smartest kid in class. The best player on the school soccer team. And he's beloved by students and teachers alike. But with the appearance of Damian Wayne on campus, Howard's favored student status is in serious jeopardy.
Meanwhile, Batman has gone missing. The soccer teams of all the local schools, except for Damian's old school and Metro, have been vandalized. On the trail of seemingly the Joker, Riddler or even Poison Ivy, Batman finds himself stuck in his most unbreakable prison ever- the utility closet of a middle school gymnasium!
With Batman lost, Damian is anxious to find his dad. But he can't do it alone. And Alfred is refusing to let Damian go out patrolling in costume alone. Can Damian reveal to his arch-rival Howard in hopes of finding Batman and ending a soccer themed crime wave?
This was another DC Kids graphic novel that I've been looking forward to for quite some time. And thanks to my local library, I was able to finally get my hands on it. Written and illustrated by Family Comic Family Jeffrey Brown (Star Wars: Jedi Academy), this was a fun read. I thought Damian was portrayed spot-on as he's been in the comics. Only maybe a little less arrogantly. This is a kids book, ya know.
I liked the new character of Howard and his school. I liked how one of the students are portrayed as disabled and yet the book does make a big, patronizing deal about it. It just was. Like how those with disabilities want to be treated: as a part of the group.
What I wasn't a fan of was how Brown portrays Batman. If you haven't figured things out, this Batman is kinda a buffoon. Having the Caped Crusader be aloof, like an out of touch dad is fine for its comedic effect. But having Batman be so dumb he can't break out of a middle school locker room just isn't Batman.
A great read that was goofy. Just some parts were better than others. And be sure to read through very end of the book for a special double-page secret scene!
I'd be okay with a sequel or two, regardless of how goofy the Dark Knight was in this book!
April 22, 2024
very good illustrations and good story line.
January 26, 2022
The story's told in alternating points of view, primarily between Damian and Howard, with a few short scenes to check in on Batman. By getting into both boys' minds we see how alike they are despite their different backgrounds. Mostly, then, the book is how the two overcome their preconceptions to become friends.
http://pussreboots.com/blog/2022/comm...
http://pussreboots.com/blog/2022/comm...
December 23, 2021
'Batman and Robin and Howard' with story and art by Jeffrey Brown is a graphic novel about a young superhero making new friends.
Batman and his son Damian are out on patrol when Damian makes an error. He suddenly finds himself at a new school and meeting new people. A boy named Howard doesn't like him because he acts like a know-it-all, and Damian thinks the same. Meanwhile, Batman finds himself in trouble and it may take Damian and even Howard to help.
I'm a fan of Jeffrey Brown's work and I was not disappointed at all. He has a good grasp of these characters and writes fine stories for younger readers. I really liked this one.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
Batman and his son Damian are out on patrol when Damian makes an error. He suddenly finds himself at a new school and meeting new people. A boy named Howard doesn't like him because he acts like a know-it-all, and Damian thinks the same. Meanwhile, Batman finds himself in trouble and it may take Damian and even Howard to help.
I'm a fan of Jeffrey Brown's work and I was not disappointed at all. He has a good grasp of these characters and writes fine stories for younger readers. I really liked this one.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from DC Entertainment and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
June 7, 2023
Their are better Batman comics for young readers like Batman - Li'l Gotham or DC Comics: Secret Hero Society it feels like a Mary Sue OC in a Batman comic. Howard and Damian spend so much time fighting that the make up seems like a hand wave. It would have been nice to have a reason why Damian was switching schools cause it felt like because the plot said so. Batman in this was not that good and his side plot felt like a waist of time like he did not have back up plans in case he is stuck in a room or if he goes missing . over all its not a bad comic I just wouldn't recommend it as it felt like a piece of bad fanfiction.
November 1, 2021
Far too wordy comic for the young, where irritating, selfish, brattish, slappable Damian Wayne is irritating, selfish, brattish and slappable at school and not as Robin. So we see a lesson in how to gel at school, and lots of "soccer" action, as opposed to the regular super-heroics, but the book is (a) under the delusion that Damian is likeable whatever he's doing, when the exact opposite is more the truth, and (b) so verbose at times it might as well have turned to pure prose with a spot illustration or two. Two and a half stars.
May 28, 2023
It tried but the story was kind of lame, in a not funny way. Batman was a bit dumb, but I understand it’s a children’s book (I think). I like the final page with all the villains gathering on the soccer field, though.
December 30, 2024
Cute. Enjoyed the references to the 60s tv show and movie.
Summer Breakdown: For some reason Goodreads has the sequel series as just another edition of the original so I can't review them separately. I thought it started slow but ultimately I enjoyed it.
Summer Breakdown: For some reason Goodreads has the sequel series as just another edition of the original so I can't review them separately. I thought it started slow but ultimately I enjoyed it.
March 11, 2022
I don't normally like Batman comics, but this looked fun and goofy, and it was.
May 30, 2023
Hilarious, poignant, delightful.
November 10, 2021
See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfi...
BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD is an entertaining new take on the Batman franchise. The story is told from the perspective of Damian, Bruce Wayne's son and Robin. While patrolling with his father, Damian makes a mistake and hurts someone. His father takes him off patrol duty for a while and sends him to the public school to learn more about people instead of his fancy private school. Damian is not at all happy about attending.
At school, Howard is someone who gets along with everyone and does well in school. When he sees a new student, he is eager to help and show Damian around. However, they may be too much alike, and they seem to clash. As things escalate, they find that they cannot avoid each other and end up on the same project and on the soccer team together. Meanwhile, Batman is investigating some strange occurrences with middle school soccer teams around the city - an investigation that gets him trapped.
With Batman missing and emotions rising, Damian and Howard will need to put aside their differences and work together.
What I loved: This was an overall fun new story from the perspective of Batman's son with middle grade appropriate scenarios and themes. Readers will relate to the feelings of jealousy, trouble getting along with classmates, competition, and misunderstandings. The book captures these all well with both Howard and Damian's perspectives making the conflicts come to life. The other story with Batman was really entertaining as well. The case he is working on (sabotage of middle school soccer teams) is pretty innocuous and age-appropriate even for young middle grade readers. Even while he is trapped, there is plenty of humor (the room has comfortable seating, broken vending machines with free food and drinks, and a connected restroom).
Ultimately, this is a fun read about friendship with other intriguing themes around socioeconomic inequalities, misunderstandings, family, appreciation, and teamwork. The sketch-like artwork adds some whimsy to the story, and the bold font will be easier for young readers to read. While there is a lot of text on some pages, it is still easy to follow and understand who is speaking and which thoughts/feelings apply to which boys.
What left me wanting more: As a small point, I would have appreciated some additional resolution on the lessons learned from his time in public school with greater acknowledgement of how Damian has been growing and learning. While the impression that he is changing is there (from how he reacts and plays the last soccer game), other aspects of his selfish/taking things for granted attitude are not really addressed. It was also rather wordy in places, but this could be helpful to younger readers who appreciate more explanation and overt text.
Final verdict: An entertaining and cute graphic novel, BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD is a fun read about friendship that is sure to appeal to the intended middle grade audience.
Please note that I received a review copy. All opinions are my own.
BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD is an entertaining new take on the Batman franchise. The story is told from the perspective of Damian, Bruce Wayne's son and Robin. While patrolling with his father, Damian makes a mistake and hurts someone. His father takes him off patrol duty for a while and sends him to the public school to learn more about people instead of his fancy private school. Damian is not at all happy about attending.
At school, Howard is someone who gets along with everyone and does well in school. When he sees a new student, he is eager to help and show Damian around. However, they may be too much alike, and they seem to clash. As things escalate, they find that they cannot avoid each other and end up on the same project and on the soccer team together. Meanwhile, Batman is investigating some strange occurrences with middle school soccer teams around the city - an investigation that gets him trapped.
With Batman missing and emotions rising, Damian and Howard will need to put aside their differences and work together.
What I loved: This was an overall fun new story from the perspective of Batman's son with middle grade appropriate scenarios and themes. Readers will relate to the feelings of jealousy, trouble getting along with classmates, competition, and misunderstandings. The book captures these all well with both Howard and Damian's perspectives making the conflicts come to life. The other story with Batman was really entertaining as well. The case he is working on (sabotage of middle school soccer teams) is pretty innocuous and age-appropriate even for young middle grade readers. Even while he is trapped, there is plenty of humor (the room has comfortable seating, broken vending machines with free food and drinks, and a connected restroom).
Ultimately, this is a fun read about friendship with other intriguing themes around socioeconomic inequalities, misunderstandings, family, appreciation, and teamwork. The sketch-like artwork adds some whimsy to the story, and the bold font will be easier for young readers to read. While there is a lot of text on some pages, it is still easy to follow and understand who is speaking and which thoughts/feelings apply to which boys.
What left me wanting more: As a small point, I would have appreciated some additional resolution on the lessons learned from his time in public school with greater acknowledgement of how Damian has been growing and learning. While the impression that he is changing is there (from how he reacts and plays the last soccer game), other aspects of his selfish/taking things for granted attitude are not really addressed. It was also rather wordy in places, but this could be helpful to younger readers who appreciate more explanation and overt text.
Final verdict: An entertaining and cute graphic novel, BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD is a fun read about friendship that is sure to appeal to the intended middle grade audience.
Please note that I received a review copy. All opinions are my own.
November 10, 2021
My Best Friend is Robin?!
Jeffrey Brown writes a new entertaining and relatable story for Damian Wayne in Batman and Robin and Howard. How do you teach a child, who has everything, to be more empathetic toward the citizens of Gotham? Transfer him from Gotham Prep. to Gotham Metro Academy. Which doesn’t seem very safe for a high-profile family, but this is nice Gotham. Howard loves his school, is an overachieving student, a great friend to all his classmates, and a really great guy. Life is good until Damian Wayne is transferred into his class. Damian is certain that the only reason everyone is treating him kindly is because Bruce Wayne is his father, and Howard can’t be all that great either. The first day of school starts with plenty of miscommunications, as Howard tries to be Damian’s friend. When tension heats up, and they become competitive during soccer practice.
Jeffrey Brown has a fun hand drawn comic style, that is really accessible for children learning how to draw comics themselves. His characters have a full range of expressions, even with the simplified design, especially the stress in Bruce’s eyes. There is a diverse group of students, and it is great seeing them work hard to be kind to each other. Damian does not have his usual backstory as a privately tutored child assassin. Instead in this really nice version, he has been in Gotham since at least Pre-K. Damian ends up seeming overly shy at times, because he doesn’t talk much to anyone, but he is making an effort not to voice his negative thoughts. It is a bit strange to have such a light Batman and Robin comic with Damian, but there are plenty of fun little references for fans. It is also comical seeing batman puzzle over the mysteries of school soccer.
Overall, this story has a lot of heart, as Damian and Howard try to overcome their own misconceptions. Their frustrations with each other are understandable, and they both struggle with thinking negatively about each other’s intentions. Without context Damian could be perceived as a spoiled rich brat, when instead he is just lonely. It is definitely a valuable lesson in observation, deduction, and patience that Batman can be proud of. This is a great story about learning to make new friends, and how to overcome jealousy with friendship.
Jeffrey Brown writes a new entertaining and relatable story for Damian Wayne in Batman and Robin and Howard. How do you teach a child, who has everything, to be more empathetic toward the citizens of Gotham? Transfer him from Gotham Prep. to Gotham Metro Academy. Which doesn’t seem very safe for a high-profile family, but this is nice Gotham. Howard loves his school, is an overachieving student, a great friend to all his classmates, and a really great guy. Life is good until Damian Wayne is transferred into his class. Damian is certain that the only reason everyone is treating him kindly is because Bruce Wayne is his father, and Howard can’t be all that great either. The first day of school starts with plenty of miscommunications, as Howard tries to be Damian’s friend. When tension heats up, and they become competitive during soccer practice.
Jeffrey Brown has a fun hand drawn comic style, that is really accessible for children learning how to draw comics themselves. His characters have a full range of expressions, even with the simplified design, especially the stress in Bruce’s eyes. There is a diverse group of students, and it is great seeing them work hard to be kind to each other. Damian does not have his usual backstory as a privately tutored child assassin. Instead in this really nice version, he has been in Gotham since at least Pre-K. Damian ends up seeming overly shy at times, because he doesn’t talk much to anyone, but he is making an effort not to voice his negative thoughts. It is a bit strange to have such a light Batman and Robin comic with Damian, but there are plenty of fun little references for fans. It is also comical seeing batman puzzle over the mysteries of school soccer.
Overall, this story has a lot of heart, as Damian and Howard try to overcome their own misconceptions. Their frustrations with each other are understandable, and they both struggle with thinking negatively about each other’s intentions. Without context Damian could be perceived as a spoiled rich brat, when instead he is just lonely. It is definitely a valuable lesson in observation, deduction, and patience that Batman can be proud of. This is a great story about learning to make new friends, and how to overcome jealousy with friendship.
November 20, 2021
Batman and Robin and Howard by Jeffrey Brown is a very endearing and humorous tale about Damian Wayne taking on public school, making friends, and figuring out what kind of pint-sized hero he is. Brown is skilled at creating comical pieces of dialogue that can amuse children—the intended audiences—and the adults reading along with them.
Damian’s adventure begins after he feels sidelined by his father—the great caped crusader Batman—and after an errant decision on a mission on the night before his first day at a new school. Damian is, understandably, a bit spoiled and extremely aloof about his less-than-favorable personality traits that go along with being a billionaire’s son.
Like with most of Brown’s work, Batman and Robin and Howard is not meant to be a super-serious superhero adventure. It’s lighthearted and fun and filled with perils and pitfalls that are perfectly proportioned for a middle schooler. But even with that clear intent, Brown still manages to create an extremely fun story that feels like it could easily slip somewhere into the canon of Bruce and Damian Wayne. Especially when this particular Damian Wayne feels like an actual middle schooler trying to be cool and popular.
This story is filled to the brim with heart, humor, and a healthy dose of Batman trying to get to the bottom of the latest menace—who is terrorizing the local soccer tournament. If you ever wanted a healthy dose of BatDad, you’ll get in the motherload in Batman and Robin and Howard.
Batman and Robin and Howard is a must-have for Batman and Robin fans and the perfect book to introduce children to Damian Wayne. There are hidden lessons about growing up, being a good friend, and finding your place in the world, in between all of the caped crusader fun. The only critique worth noting is that, depending on the age of your young reader, they may need a bit of help getting through this very text-heavy graphic novel. While the ideas aren’t complicated, it’s a lot of text packed into each panel of action.
Damian’s adventure begins after he feels sidelined by his father—the great caped crusader Batman—and after an errant decision on a mission on the night before his first day at a new school. Damian is, understandably, a bit spoiled and extremely aloof about his less-than-favorable personality traits that go along with being a billionaire’s son.
Like with most of Brown’s work, Batman and Robin and Howard is not meant to be a super-serious superhero adventure. It’s lighthearted and fun and filled with perils and pitfalls that are perfectly proportioned for a middle schooler. But even with that clear intent, Brown still manages to create an extremely fun story that feels like it could easily slip somewhere into the canon of Bruce and Damian Wayne. Especially when this particular Damian Wayne feels like an actual middle schooler trying to be cool and popular.
This story is filled to the brim with heart, humor, and a healthy dose of Batman trying to get to the bottom of the latest menace—who is terrorizing the local soccer tournament. If you ever wanted a healthy dose of BatDad, you’ll get in the motherload in Batman and Robin and Howard.
Batman and Robin and Howard is a must-have for Batman and Robin fans and the perfect book to introduce children to Damian Wayne. There are hidden lessons about growing up, being a good friend, and finding your place in the world, in between all of the caped crusader fun. The only critique worth noting is that, depending on the age of your young reader, they may need a bit of help getting through this very text-heavy graphic novel. While the ideas aren’t complicated, it’s a lot of text packed into each panel of action.
November 23, 2021
Damian Wayne is determined to protect Gotham City, but makes a mistake big enough that he's forced to take time off from being Robin. Bruce Wayne decides he should start over at Gotham Metro Academy. Damian meets Howard, already known as the smartest and most athletic kid in school. Their rivalry begins immediately because only one of them can be the best in their class.
Jeffrey Brown is an author and illustrator, known for children's and middle grade books taking various properties and tweaking them for younger audiences. If you've ever read the Jedi Academy series, you know exactly what I'm talking about. If not, go find them! They're adorable, and my children all enjoyed reading them. Jeffrey has a way of being subtle about messages for kids, understanding the way they think, and absorb lessons.
Damian is impetuous and impatient, which led to his mistake. He doesn't want to think he makes mistakes, which would prevent him from learning and growing. He starts off thinking the worst of the school and Howard, who is trying to make him feel comfortable as the new kid. We have the benefit of seeing their thought bubbles, color coordinated to make it easy to tell who is who. We know that Damian compares everything to what he knew, and Howard is trying to be a good friend. Their misunderstanding leads to conflict, and they have to work it out for themselves. While I'm never really a fan of taking adults out of the equation or making them look silly, it's more important for the two boys to actually talk to each other and discover their similarities.
Overall, this is a cute book for elementary school-age readers, and it shows in a concrete way for those readers why being open and honest is important for making friendships. Damian and Howard both work off their misperceptions at first, and only once they talk can they really help each other and become friends. It's an important lesson for children to learn.
Jeffrey Brown is an author and illustrator, known for children's and middle grade books taking various properties and tweaking them for younger audiences. If you've ever read the Jedi Academy series, you know exactly what I'm talking about. If not, go find them! They're adorable, and my children all enjoyed reading them. Jeffrey has a way of being subtle about messages for kids, understanding the way they think, and absorb lessons.
Damian is impetuous and impatient, which led to his mistake. He doesn't want to think he makes mistakes, which would prevent him from learning and growing. He starts off thinking the worst of the school and Howard, who is trying to make him feel comfortable as the new kid. We have the benefit of seeing their thought bubbles, color coordinated to make it easy to tell who is who. We know that Damian compares everything to what he knew, and Howard is trying to be a good friend. Their misunderstanding leads to conflict, and they have to work it out for themselves. While I'm never really a fan of taking adults out of the equation or making them look silly, it's more important for the two boys to actually talk to each other and discover their similarities.
Overall, this is a cute book for elementary school-age readers, and it shows in a concrete way for those readers why being open and honest is important for making friendships. Damian and Howard both work off their misperceptions at first, and only once they talk can they really help each other and become friends. It's an important lesson for children to learn.
November 7, 2021
Thanks to DC & NetGalley for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Damian Wayne (Robin) moves to a new school and has to adjust to the change of scenery. Howard is a pretty popular and chill kid at Damian's new school but he and Damian have a hard time getting along....
I really loved the science experiment they worked on throughout the book it was pretty entertaining and neat. I think it's a really nice and upbeat book that works well. I don't know half the soccer trivia mentioned here but it was still sweet.
Batman was just a Tired Dad and that's pretty accurate so A+ on that. Alfred was super sweet too, I was worried he'd be crabby old man but nah he was good. Confused about the 50th change to the Wayne family dog though....I guess Ace and Titus are just left in the dust here for "Dribble"? Haha.
I know it's petty but I knocked a star off for two things:
1.) Damian Wayne's mother is Talia Al Ghul who is *not* white. DC has this problem where they "constantly "forget" Damian's mom is literally from the middle east...half the time both of them are properly darker skinned but half the time, including this book, both of them are as pale as bread for some reason. Petty, but I wish they would be consistent with the continuity.
2.) This is really petty but I find it ridiculous Damian told Howard he's Robin. Where's the rest of the Batfamily? Dick? Jason? Tim? Cass? There's so many people that could've helped Damian find Bruce....I guess this is more of a self-contained story where Damian literally has no one else in the Batfamily to rely on besides Alfred & Bruce? (I also do appreciate the Nightwing mention but Pls no Howard don't take the role on LOL)
A charming and fun Damian Wayne/Robin adventure!
Damian Wayne (Robin) moves to a new school and has to adjust to the change of scenery. Howard is a pretty popular and chill kid at Damian's new school but he and Damian have a hard time getting along....
I really loved the science experiment they worked on throughout the book it was pretty entertaining and neat. I think it's a really nice and upbeat book that works well. I don't know half the soccer trivia mentioned here but it was still sweet.
Batman was just a Tired Dad and that's pretty accurate so A+ on that. Alfred was super sweet too, I was worried he'd be crabby old man but nah he was good. Confused about the 50th change to the Wayne family dog though....I guess Ace and Titus are just left in the dust here for "Dribble"? Haha.
I know it's petty but I knocked a star off for two things:
1.) Damian Wayne's mother is Talia Al Ghul who is *not* white. DC has this problem where they "constantly "forget" Damian's mom is literally from the middle east...half the time both of them are properly darker skinned but half the time, including this book, both of them are as pale as bread for some reason. Petty, but I wish they would be consistent with the continuity.
2.) This is really petty but I find it ridiculous Damian told Howard he's Robin. Where's the rest of the Batfamily? Dick? Jason? Tim? Cass? There's so many people that could've helped Damian find Bruce....I guess this is more of a self-contained story where Damian literally has no one else in the Batfamily to rely on besides Alfred & Bruce? (I also do appreciate the Nightwing mention but Pls no Howard don't take the role on LOL)
A charming and fun Damian Wayne/Robin adventure!
November 10, 2021
The Review
This was such a fun and humorous dive into the life of Damian Wayne. From the fumbling father/son relationship he has with Bruce Wayne, aka Batman, to the competitive nature and lone-wolf style mindset he has carried into every facet of his life, and even the detective mindset that he inherited from his father as he is forced to step up to help solve the mystery crimes surrounding soccer teams at schools. The inclusion of Batman lore and mythos into the children’s book narrative and style (as well as incredible children’s artwork), made this story feel equally balanced and engaging for both DC Fans and children’s book readers alike.
The balance with this humor and lore came with the educational and moral lessons that the story brought upon young readers. From showing how we often don’t get along with those who mirror our worst impulses and instincts, to finding common ground with frenemies and becoming friends instead, to finding balance and letting go a bit of the control we have over our lives, these themes and messages found in the relationship developed between Damian and Howard were amazing to watch unfold and would keep readers enthralled with the growing narrative.
The Verdict
A thoughtful, entertaining, and brilliant children’s read, author Jeffrey Brown’s “Batman and Robin and Howard”, the latest children’s book in association with DC Comics, is a must-read children’s book of 2021! A gripping and educational read, the book is filled with personal and warm imagery and does a great job of developing their characters so that readers are not only entertained but see themselves in the characters as well.
This was such a fun and humorous dive into the life of Damian Wayne. From the fumbling father/son relationship he has with Bruce Wayne, aka Batman, to the competitive nature and lone-wolf style mindset he has carried into every facet of his life, and even the detective mindset that he inherited from his father as he is forced to step up to help solve the mystery crimes surrounding soccer teams at schools. The inclusion of Batman lore and mythos into the children’s book narrative and style (as well as incredible children’s artwork), made this story feel equally balanced and engaging for both DC Fans and children’s book readers alike.
The balance with this humor and lore came with the educational and moral lessons that the story brought upon young readers. From showing how we often don’t get along with those who mirror our worst impulses and instincts, to finding common ground with frenemies and becoming friends instead, to finding balance and letting go a bit of the control we have over our lives, these themes and messages found in the relationship developed between Damian and Howard were amazing to watch unfold and would keep readers enthralled with the growing narrative.
The Verdict
A thoughtful, entertaining, and brilliant children’s read, author Jeffrey Brown’s “Batman and Robin and Howard”, the latest children’s book in association with DC Comics, is a must-read children’s book of 2021! A gripping and educational read, the book is filled with personal and warm imagery and does a great job of developing their characters so that readers are not only entertained but see themselves in the characters as well.
November 9, 2021
1st Line: "Gotham City."
Prose (Story): When Robin makes a sizeable goof one night as they patrol Gotham City, Batman decides it's time for him to be a regular kid for awhile - making Damian Wayne the newest student at public school Gotham Metro Academy, Here his intelligence and soccer skills and affable personality make him very popular ... much to the annoyance of Howard, a fellow student previously enjoying all those perks of school life. What follows is a rivalry of the two boys besting each other as - meanwhile - a potential new arch-villain has Batman trapped in a sports equpiment room at another school, leaving Damian/Robin on his own.
Don's (Review): Autor Jeffrey Brown's sense of humor is fun and semi-snarky, so how could I not love this? Perfect for kids right down to the kid-like art, the rivalry between Damian and Howard at Gotham Metro, especially on the soccer pitch, will resonate pitch-perfect (yeah, I went there) with anyone who has ever attended middle school. Damian comes off likeable even as he's also a bit of a know-it-all, while Howard's jealousy over losing the honors and benefits of school life that used to go to him make him understandably (to any kid) turn a bit underhanded in trying to be on top again. Meanwhile, there's Batman; I really loved how Brown made him kind of a doofuss-y dad here, and the plotline of his attempts to find out who is sabotaging local schools is very funny ... but leads to a cool resolution to the mystery, all the same: a bonus. Colorful, funny, light, and a great read for any Batfan (or soccer fan), young or old. Also my first experience reading Jeffrey Brown, though now I look forwad to more. (Available November 9) 4/5 stars
NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
from blog: booksinaminute.blogspot.com
Prose (Story): When Robin makes a sizeable goof one night as they patrol Gotham City, Batman decides it's time for him to be a regular kid for awhile - making Damian Wayne the newest student at public school Gotham Metro Academy, Here his intelligence and soccer skills and affable personality make him very popular ... much to the annoyance of Howard, a fellow student previously enjoying all those perks of school life. What follows is a rivalry of the two boys besting each other as - meanwhile - a potential new arch-villain has Batman trapped in a sports equpiment room at another school, leaving Damian/Robin on his own.
Don's (Review): Autor Jeffrey Brown's sense of humor is fun and semi-snarky, so how could I not love this? Perfect for kids right down to the kid-like art, the rivalry between Damian and Howard at Gotham Metro, especially on the soccer pitch, will resonate pitch-perfect (yeah, I went there) with anyone who has ever attended middle school. Damian comes off likeable even as he's also a bit of a know-it-all, while Howard's jealousy over losing the honors and benefits of school life that used to go to him make him understandably (to any kid) turn a bit underhanded in trying to be on top again. Meanwhile, there's Batman; I really loved how Brown made him kind of a doofuss-y dad here, and the plotline of his attempts to find out who is sabotaging local schools is very funny ... but leads to a cool resolution to the mystery, all the same: a bonus. Colorful, funny, light, and a great read for any Batfan (or soccer fan), young or old. Also my first experience reading Jeffrey Brown, though now I look forwad to more. (Available November 9) 4/5 stars
NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
from blog: booksinaminute.blogspot.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews